Etihad Airways appoints Vice President Sales Central USA

The appointment of Haitham Al Subaihi follows Etihad Airways’ announcement that it would commence flights to the Washington region, its fourth destination in North America, on March 31, 2013 with daily non-stop flights from Abu Dhabi.

In his new role, Haitham will oversee the development and launch of the airline’s sales strategy in Central USA, particularly growing a strong market presence in the National Capital Region. A strong focus for the region will be supporting local corporate, government and major trade partner accounts, as well as student travel.

Haitham began his career with Etihad Airways in 2007 as a Graduate Management trainee. In 2009, he served as Business Development Manager for North America, based in New York, before returning to the UAE to take his most recent role as Manager Sales – Government.

Haitham holds a Bachelors degree in Mass Communication from Richmond American International University in London.

Geert Boven, Etihad Airways Senior Vice President Americas, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Haitham to our team in the USA. The establishment of this senior position reflects the importance of the D.C. region for building our brand within America.

“Not only does he have a proven track record of success and experience in the USA, but he also has demonstrated an inherent leadership and understanding of our business which will be integral to establishing the Etihad Airways brand in this new market.”

The Washington DC region is home to America’s second largest market flying to the Middle East, after New York. Etihad Airways launched Toronto in October 2005, New York in October 2006 and Chicago in September 2009.